What Are the Dangers of the Hib Vaccine?

Hib vaccine has been licensed in the U.S. since 1985. The vaccine protects against invasive disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), which can include meningitis (swelling of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and pneumonia. It is recommended for children under 5 years of age, and for older people at high risk of Hib infection.

Effectiveness

• The Hib vaccine produces an immune response quite effectively: After two or three doses, 95 to 100 percent of infants are protected from Hib disease.

Very Low Risk

• Hib vaccine is very safe; most Hib vaccine recipients experience no problems. It is extremely rare for Hib vaccine to cause serious harm.

Who Should not get Hib Vaccine?

• Certain people should not get Hib vaccine, including those who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction after getting Hib vaccine previously, and children younger than 6 weeks.

Minor Reactions

• Typical mild side-effects of Hib vaccination can include redness, warmth, or swelling at the injection site, or a fever more than 101 degrees F. These problems should resolve after 2 to 3 days.

Moderate to Severe Reactions

• As with any medication, vaccines can potentially cause serious problems. These can include severe allergic reactions. Watch for hives, paleness, weakness, fast heartbeat, dizziness, hoarseness or wheezing, or difficulty breathing. If you notice these signs in someone within a few hours after a Hib vaccination, call a doctor immediately.